UK: National Centre for AI created to use technology in tertiary education
AI is full of promise, but that promise will not be realised unless the government, educators, experts, and businesses work collaboratively to harness its potential.
(Rose Luckin, professor of learner-centred design at UCL)
UK non-profit organization for digital services and solutions Jisc has launched a new National Centre for Artificial Intelligence. It aims to use the power of AI in Tertiary education to help universities and colleges using immersive technologies.
The initiative plans to use artificial intelligence to transform teaching and learning through a personalised learning experience in colleges and universities in the UK.
Presently, at the very first phase, the team of AI experts and partners from the industry and education will work on identifying priorities and needs, focusing on practical help and implementation of AI technologies. Part of the work will be to increase the confidence of teaching and HE institution staff in using the technologies, training and development of practical how-to guides and training resources as well as opportunity to share knowledge and experience within a community.
Andy McGregor, Jisc’s director of edtech says:
“Universities and colleges are at a critical juncture. COVID showed the possibilities technology offers in delivering courses remotely. AI offers the chance to help every student reach their highest potential by offering highly personalised education. However, this will only work if AI is used to augment the important role teachers play in education and if ethics are at the forefront of implementing AI tools.”
The Office for Artificial Intelligence estimates that AI could boost productivity in some industries by 30% but there is still a gap in maximising AI in education. The National Centre for AI plans to increase the use and deliver new technology solutions to 60 colleges and 30 universities within the next five years.
Rose Luckin, professor of learner-centred design at University College London, said:
“AI is full of promise, but that promise will not be realised unless government, educators, experts and businesses work collaboratively to harness its potential.
The work of the National Centre will not only be beneficial for innovation-focused colleges but has already had a positive welcome by global technology companies including Amazon Web Services, Google, and Microsoft.
